October 2012

Oct 9, 2012

What starting point?

There’s a big debate going on about whether we’re better off now, economically speaking. Of course, such comparisons must have both a starting point and an ending point. For most, the ending point is now. But what is the appropriate starting point? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 8, 2012

Is there a structural labor problem?

The job market is still a big issue in the economy. Some say much of the problem is structural rather than cyclical. What is structural versus cyclical? Which is the problem? And why does it matter? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 5, 2012

Food prices over time

Because of the Midwest drought, the government says food prices are expected to rise the rest of this year as well as next year. Still, food is very much a bargain when viewed over several decades, says N.C. State University economist Mike Walden. 

Oct 4, 2012

John Dole named Horticultural Science head

Dr. John Dole, a horticulturalist whose work focuses on greenhouse and field-cut flowers, has been named head of the North Carolina State University Department of Horticultural Science. He has served as interim head of the department since 2011. 

Oct 4, 2012

Successful nations

When it comes to economic development, what makes for a successful country? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds. 

Oct 3, 2012

Workshop for women focuses on handling cattle

North Carolina Cooperative Extension provides workshops for women on low-stress cattle handling techniques and other topics related to beef cattle. 

Oct 3, 2012

Sales

Most people like the idea of buying things at bargain prices. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden takes a look at why sales occur – and whether they always bring real savings. 

Oct 2, 2012

Internship aids defense plant workers

For people Mary Kathryn Fletcher’s age, the cold war is a somewhat abstract historical term, but Fletcher came face-to-face with an element of that period of American history during a summer internship. 

Oct 2, 2012

Career Expo 2012 gives students a head start in job market connections

“Make a Life--Make a Living--Make a Difference” was the theme as CALS Career Expo 2012 welcomed more than 1,000 students to its annual career fair Sept. 27 at N.C. State University. 

Oct 2, 2012

Getting ahead

With first the recession and now very sluggish economic growth, people are understandably focused on improving the economy. How do we do this? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden responds.